As we head through January, Get Out More is pleased to be sharing one of several exciting developments from the team.  After some successful trial sessions with schools in Late 2023, we are proud to be able to use the newly community-owned Weston Woods in Otley as a site for our forest schools, wellbeing programmes and volunteering projects.

Taken from the Menston Area Nature Trust website:

“East Wood, Weston, near Otley (known locally as Weston Woods) is nearly 20 acres of mature mixed deciduous woodland, alive with wildlife including red kites, goldcrests, tree creepers, warblers, woodpeckers and tawny owls. Oak, birch, beech, elder and sycamore are underlain by bluebells, wild garlic, brambles and other woodland flowers…It is valued for the memories of playing there as children, the peace people find there, but also as a place where nature thrives. There is a growing understanding that mature woodlands like these are not only vital for the wonderful habitats they provide, but also play a really important part in holding and soaking up carbon, preventing the carbon dioxide adding to global warming.”

Our first event open to the public is our Holiday Forest Schools, running on the 14th of February. It has already had a fantastic response from families, with places running very low!  We also plan to assist in any environmental projects within the wood with the Outdoor Taskforce.

There are so many benefits to being in nature, including but not limited to improved cognitive function, enhanced wellbeing, a boost to physical fitness and even improved social interactions!  We look forward to sharing these benefits with the people of Otley and the surrounding area when we bring our projects to this fantastic community-owned woodland.

We are focused on supporting community-led projects like this; hence, a percentage of any ticket sales, alongside a portion of Get Out More’s surplus revenue, will be shared with the trust.  We look forward to seeing you in Weston Woods!